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Across the Pastor’s Desk by Henry Doyle

“I believe that the world was created and approved by love, that it subsists, coheres and endures by love, and that, insofar as it is redeemable, it can be redeemed only by love.” — Wendell Berry

When I recently drove north on I-35, I approached the section of the interstate under construction, where the two lanes would become one lane for a stretch. My vehicle was in the left lane which would continue. I did not want to drive behind the truck and its trailer in the right lane. For a very short time, I became an aggressive driver who did not like how I conducted myself. I said, “Stop being a jerk, Henry Doyle!” As we approached the place where the truck driver had to merge into the left lane, I looked in the rear view mirror and noticed the car behind me was not close. I slowed down and let the truck driver enter the lane. I did not mind driving behind him at a safe distance. To my delightful surprise, within a mile, I could move into the right lane and exit the interstate into town.

Many times, another driver has let me change lanes in front of them. I waved thanks to them, with a smile. My parents, relatives and other adults modeled safe and courteous driving habits. They did not press on the car’s horn, and they did not swear. When I have done likewise, I have felt peace within myself and with companions on this earthly journey. Moreover, I have enjoyed being behind the wheel.

Out of love, God creates heaven and earth. Because God loves us imperfect human beings unconditionally and tremendously, and because God desires a close relationship with us, God redeems us. God commands us to love God and one another.

God wants us to live in harmony with one another. When we respect, care about, support, forgive and love one another, our relationships thrive, flourish and deepen. We live harmoniously with God and one another.

“Let all that you do be done in love.” — I Corinthians 16:4

Henry Doyle is the priest-in-charge at Christ Episcopal Church in Albert Lea.